BBC Two’s 90-minute film will star Charlie Cox (Stardust), Romola Garai (The Hour), Andrew Scott (Sherlock) and Simon Russell Beale (Spooks).

Based on the novel by Alan Judd, the espionage thriller is set during the height of the Cold War in 1970s London, will be directed by Pete Travis (Dredd).

Legacy tells the story of a young spy, Charles Thoroughgood (Cox), who discovers the disturbing truth about his father’s complex past.

The official synopsis reads: “Fresh out of the army, Charles has barely begun his training in Britain’s secret intelligence service, MI6, when his university association with a Soviet diplomat lands him on a case.

“The diplomat, Viktor Koslov (Scott), has been working in London and his behaviour suggests he could be turned. Charles’ bosses hope to exploit Viktor for their own purposes. But when Charles makes contact, Viktor reveals certain information that he would rather not believe.

“As he is drawn deeper and deeper into the machinations of international intelligence, Charles finds himself falling in love with someone very close to the dangerous world he inhabits – a forbidden love, which makes it all the more intoxicating…”

The cast also includes Olivia Grant (Strike Back) as Eva, Christian McKay (Tinker Taylor Solider Spy) as Hugo and Tessa Peake Jones (Marchlands) as Joyce.

Executive producer Lucy Richer commented: “Charlie is going to make a fantastic Charles Thoroughgood and I’m delighted to have such a talented cast on board. Leading on from the recent success of drama on BBC Two, Paula’s script is guaranteed to make Legacy the most bold and ambitious drama imaginable.”

Are you looking forward to Legacy? Let us know below…